Frequently Asked Questions
Why use a boutique investment company like Lyford Independent Investments?
We restrict our client base to ensure that you do get personalised service directly from the director and continuity of adviser.
What makes you different to other investment companies?
We continually question, analyse and review. We access high quality investment research from different sources. Our advice is independent, unbiased and transparent. Please refer to the section Our Philosophy
Are you an 'independent adviser'?
YES, definitely yes. The Capital Market Development Taskforce, Dec 09 has endorsed the use of the words 'independent adviser' to those who are paid solely on a fee-for-service basis by investors and do not receive commissions from product providers, and to impose a clear fiduciary duty (act in the clients best interests) on those that use this title.
What are your fees?
Clearly explained and very transparent. No hidden, under the table, commissions and brokerages that are rife in the New Zealand financial services industry even by some publicly vocal advisers who declare their purity. Please refer to our Disclosure Statement.
How can I fairly compare your fees with other advisers?
Wow ... are we passionate about this. Refer to our Disclosure Statement and compare it with other advisers. Feel free to come in for a meeting to discuss fees.
Do you review, or give second opinions on existing investment portfolios?
YES. Please refer to Investment Portfolios - Second Opinion
Will my money be safe?
YES. Your investments are held in an independent Custodial company and only you can withdraw funds from your private investment account. Please note that your capital amount will fluctuate with market movements.
How do you determine how I should invest?
We start with accessing your attitudes to investment risk and matching your income and investment goals. Please refer to Our Philosophy.
Do you use independent research?
YES. We use a variety of sources but mainly Morningstar research which is an internationally recognised research house. For asset allocation we have chosen to use Farrelly's, an Australian company specialising in robust, proactive asset allocation research.
Do you recommend only managed funds?
NO. We do recommend direct bonds and shares. Managed funds do allow great diversification both from underlying investments and sub asset sectors. While there is a place for index funds like Vanguard, ishares etc in the environment post the Global Financial Crisis of 2007/2008 markets remain volatile. A good active fund manager is a better option to an index tracking fund. There has been much debate that by using an active fund manager you end up paying higher management fees than you would with an index tracking fund which may result in below average market returns. These studies were done in mid to late 1990's, in the middle of a bull market. It is our opinion that these studies do not apply in today's environment.
Can I view my investments at any time on the web?
YES. All clients are given access to a secure 128 bit encryption web site specific only to your investments. Your investments can be viewed at any time.
How often do you review my investments and the funds in my portfolio?
The underlying investments selected are reviewed quarterly. Your investment portfolio is reviewed six monthly with an annual face-to-face meeting, or if you prefer a one hour telephone call. We also may review your risk/return profile and investments goals at this annual review to check that you are on track.
I see you are based in Wellington does this mean you only have clients living in Wellington?
NO. We travel regularly to Auckland and Christchurch. We communicate regularly by phone and email and have overseas clients. Our clients find distance is not an issue.
Do you offer a full financial planning service. I would like help with insurance and retirement and a full financial planning review?
NO. Lyford Independent Investments Ltd is a specialist fee only investment portfolio management company.
Lyford Asset Management Ltd does provides a full financial planning service.
Please contact Alison Renfrew CLU,CFP (Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Life Underwriter), web site www.Lyfords.co.nz .
Click here to email Alison
What fund managers do you use?
We use independent research mainly from Morningstar to filter the more than 18,000 managed investment funds in Australasia to give a recommended list of between 45-60 funds. Investments are reviewed quarterly. Where available we use mainly wholesale fund managers. If retail funds are used all commissions and brokerages are rebated back to the client's cash account.
What is Occam's Razor Approach?
The simplest approach is often the best solution.
